In today’s visually driven world, a headshot is no longer just a nice-to-have — it’s your digital handshake, your personal billboard, and often the first impression you make in both professional and personal circles. But as digital marketing and social media expand, the standards for what makes a great headshot have evolved.
So what exactly sets apart a great headshot nowadays?
At Block Portrait Studios, we specialize in crafting a professional portrait experience that brings out the best in each client. Here’s what defines a truly exceptional headshot in this new era:
1. Authenticity Over Perfection
Gone are the days of stiff, overly posed headshots. Today, authenticity reigns supreme. A great headshot should feel like you — confident, approachable, and natural. Whether you’re an executive, creative, entrepreneur, or artist, your portrait should tell your story in an honest, polished way.
Pro Tip: The best expressions often come between the posed moments. That’s why we create a relaxed studio environment that allows your personality to shine through.
2. Purpose-Driven Styling
The right look depends on where and how your image will be used — LinkedIn, a business website, press features, speaking engagements, or personal branding platforms like Instagram. As you choose your outfits, consider your brand colors or what message you are sending based on the colors you wear. Additionally, choose outfits that you feel confident and comfortable in!
Styling Tip: Choose clothing that aligns with your brand. Simple, well-fitted pieces in solid colors tend to photograph best, especially in our studio lighting. Also, we recommend sticking with your current wardrobe pieces – however; if you do buy a new outfit, wear it a few times ahead of your session. This way, you can ensure everything fits well and feels great.
3. Expert Lighting & Composition
The artistry behind a great headshot still comes down to fundamentals — and in a studio like ours, lighting is one of the most powerful tools we use to elevate your image. Subtle, sculpted lighting is key to bringing out your features!
4. Minimal (But Thoughtful) Retouching
Headshots should look polished, but you should still look like yourself! That means no heavy editing or filters. At Block Portrait Studios, our editing philosophy is “refine, don’t alter.” We’ll retouch skin blemishes, but we won’t remove every freckle, wrinkle, or expression line. A great headshot reflects the very best version of you — not an unrecognizable one!
5. Connection Through Expression
The most compelling headshots create connection. That slight smile, confident gaze, or hint of curiosity in your eyes can engage someone before they even read your bio. That’s why posing is all about direction and intention! Through guided conversation and coaching, our expert photographers will help draw out genuine expressions that feel real!
A great headshot today is more than just a beautiful photo — it’s a personal brand asset. It’s visual storytelling. And at Block Portrait Studios, it’s an experience tailored to you, from consultation to delivery.
Whether you’re preparing for a career shift, building your personal brand, or simply refreshing your online presence, investing in a headshot session is one of the most impactful steps you can take.
Ready to give your headshot a glow-up? Book your Discovery Call today! We offer individual headshot sessions at our studio in West St. Paul or on location, as well as team portraits and individual team headshot experiences.
Looking for more? We also offer branding portrait experiences where you can expect a series of portraits to showcase your brand on your website and social media.
Just need one outfit, one image headshot? Book one of our 15-minute Business Quick-Takes. This is a great option if you need an updated headshot for your website, profile photo, or for speaker bios.
